Performance review for problem-hit £50m Condor ferry

The Condor Liberation had completed its maiden voyage to Jersey on 27 March

It is hoped a report into the performance of a problem-hit ferry will serve to reassure its customers.

The Condor Liberation has faced a number of problems since it took over the fast ferry link between the Channel Islands and the UK in March.

The £50m ferry was damaged while attempting to dock in Guernsey and also faced a series of mechanical issues

The independent review has been commissioned by the States of Jersey and Guernsey and Condor Ferries.

The Condor Liberation suffered "minor damage above the waterline", the company said

Condor Ferries said they were using world leading experts in naval architecture to conduct the investigation into the Australian-built, 102m (335ft) vessel.

Non-executive chairman, Russell Kew said, "It has since been certificated by all relevant independent certification and regulatory bodies.

"Nevertheless, whilst we know that our punctuality and reliability performance needs to improve, we also want to give our customers every necessary reassurance regarding the suitability of our ship."

Jersey's Minister for Economic Development, Senator Lyndon Farnham, has welcomed the move, which will be funded by the ferry company.

He said: "I hope that this report will help us to draw a line under ill-informed speculation about the ship, which is not only damaging Condor Ferries' business but could potentially impact our Islands' reputation."